Family routines help to organize life and keep it from becoming too chaotic. And now, it has been proven that children do best when routines are regular, predictable, and consistent.

A new study published in Pediatrics showed that independent of diet and exercise, 4-year-olds were 40 percent less likely to be obese if their parents kept them to no more than two hours of TV time daily, if the family ate dinner together at least six nights a week, and if the preschooler slept at least 10 1/2 hours on weekdays.

If this sounds like an unattainable goal, start with small steps. Pick one routine to focus on, such as a standard hour for family meals, and try it 3-4 times a week. Not only will your children benefit from this healthy habit, but your whole family will appreciate the extra time spent together.